Battle rifles, at one point, were a mainstay of militaries; rifles such as the M14, FN FAL, and the M1 Garand often served as the main service rifles. The use of battle rifles as main service rifles declined with the introduction of the assault rifle; however, they still serve in DMR roles, or as sniper rifles.

Battle rifles now generally serve as designated marksman rifles (DMR), or as sniper rifles. Many service rifles were modified for this role, and some newer battle rifles even introduced, designed specifically for these roles.